Daijiworld Media Network- Udupi

Udupi, Jun 29: In a troubling case of cyber fraud, a 41-year-old man from Kaup Padu village in Udupi district has reportedly lost a whopping Rs 7.26 lac after falling prey to an online investment scam that promised unusually high returns.

The victim, Mohan Kotian, filed a complaint stating that on May 8, he received a message via the Telegram app from two unknown individuals. The message contained a link to a platform named B.coin Share Market, which claimed to offer high profits on small investments. Initially, he was encouraged after earning a return of Rs 660 on an investment of Rs 600, prompting him to continue.

Enticed by the platform’s promises of up to 60% profit, Kotian participated in a series of tasks and investment activities. Over time, he made eight transactions, amounting to a total deposit of Rs 7.26 lac.

Trouble arose when he was later asked to pay an additional Rs 2 lac as "tax", with the assurance that Rs 3 lac, including profits, would be credited back to his account. Suspecting foul play at this stage, he promptly reached out to the national cybercrime helpline 1930 and reported the incident.

Based on his complaint, the Kaup Police have registered a case under Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66 of the Information Technology Act. Two individuals have been identified as accused in the case.

Police have urged the public to exercise caution and avoid falling for online schemes that promise quick and unrealistic profits. Authorities also advise using verified financial platforms and reporting suspicious activity immediately.